Kahawatte Plantations - A New Era of Growth and Sustainability

Above: Chairman Dilmah Tea and KWPL Dilhan C Fernando, Managing Director Forbes & Walker, Yshan Fernando, Dilmah Ceylon Tea Directors Minette Perera & Roshan Tissaaratchy

Kahawatte Plantations PLC (KWPL) is entering an exciting phase of transformation, aligning its vision with modern, sustainable and innovative practices. As a leading Regional Plantation Company in Sri Lanka, KWPL stands poised to redefine plantation management by combining traditional stewardship with forward-thinking strategies, reinforcing its role as an influential and adaptable player in Sri Lanka's agricultural sector, the company said in a media release.

With a commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, KWPL is making strides toward a more sustainable future. Emphasising eco-friendly practices, KWPL has prioritised carbon footprint reduction across its diverse crop range, which includes tea, cinnamon, rubber, and coffee. Each crop is cultivated with precision to ensure both quality and sustainability, meeting global standards that resonate with today’s conscious consumers.

The past year has been marked by noteworthy achievements that reflect KWPL's dedication to operational excellence. Key milestones include a successful turnaround in profitability, improved cash flow, and optimised production margins, supported by a cohesive, motivated team. Automation and digitisation have been focal points, allowing KWPL to streamline processes and ensure product consistency. Regular monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) has also bolstered efficiency, ensuring that the company stays aligned with its business objectives.

KWPL's renewed emphasis on diversification extends beyond traditional crops. Innovations in speciality tea, direct-to-consumer products, and ventures into cinnamon and coffee processing are expanding KWPL’s portfolio, making it a major player in high-value, niche markets. These efforts are complemented by investments in tourism, where KWPL’s scenic bungalows serve as gateways to Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, enhancing the appeal of its estates as destinations for eco-tourism. Speaking at the recent group event, Chairman Dilhan C. Fernando said, “Kahawatte Plantations is embracing a new era of innovation, sustainability, and community-driven growth. We are deeply committed to enhancing value for our stakeholders while honouring our responsibility to the environment and society. Our path forward is one of resilience, focused on creating lasting impact in every aspect of our business.”

Community empowerment and employee welfare lie at the heart of KWPL’s approach. By fostering inclusivity and promoting skills development, KWPL is building a resilient, motivated workforce while strengthening ties with local communities. Initiatives in renewable energy further underscore KWPL’s commitment to sustainable growth, with recent projects aimed at expanding hydroelectric power generation to support energy self-sufficiency. “Our transformation at Kahawatte Plantations is fuelled by a commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence. By investing in innovation and empowering our people, we are building a resilient foundation for the future and redefining what it means to be a modern, responsible plantation company,” said Binesh Pananwala, Director / CEO of Kahawatte Plantations.

In its journey toward an innovative future, KWPL is cultivating shareholder prosperity by maintaining profitability, enhancing product quality, and exploring new revenue streams. With a balanced focus on economic growth, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, Kahawatte Plantations PLC is not only revitalising its legacy but also setting a new standard for regional plantation companies in Sri Lanka and beyond.